Chris Collaros ’85

Chris died April 6, 2019.

He attended Wintersville (Ohio) High School, where he excelled in sports and academics. At Princeton, he was a starting running back on the freshman football team and a multiple letter winner during his varsity years. One of Chris’ highlight performances was a 66-yard touchdown run for a 20-19 victory over Penn freshman year. Chris will be remembered by his Tiger friends for his radiant smile, his infectious laugh, his love for music, and his skill on the basketball court. As a talented guitarist, Chris could be frequently found singing Neil Young songs in between marathon backgammon sessions in Spelman.

Chris enrolled in The Ohio State University and earned a master’s degree in education. After teaching at Granby Elementary School for six years, he became the principal at Liberty Elementary, and then at Evening Street Elementary, both in Worthington, Ohio. At the time of his death, Chris was principal of Wickliffe Progressive Elementary School in Upper Arlington.

Chris brought his energy and passion to the classroom and committed himself to collaborative, hands-on learning. He and Wickliffe School were featured in Tom Little’s groundbreaking book, Loving Learning, a plea for educational methods that prioritize critical thinking, open communication, and self-directed inquiry. Chris was a member of the Progressive Education Network board of directors. His kindness, caring, positive outlook, and love helped to encourage countless schoolchildren over his 30-year career.

The class extends its deepest sympathy to his wife, Sharon; his children, Maria, Sophia, and Zoe; grandson Meeko; mother Frankie; and his siblings, Pandel, Dean, and Anthony.